US auto group issues new E15 gasoline warning

Though the ethanol industry fought for approval to roll out E15, carmakers and blenders continue to resist the move, citing concerns about its impact on vehicles and equipment. AAA warned its 53 million motorist members that most vehicles aren't approved by manufacturers to run on E15.

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By CAROLYN CUI

The American Automobile Association, the nation's largest
automobile club, is urging regulators and fuel producers to
stop selling a new gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol,
citing the potential for consumer confusion, voided warranties
and vehicle damage.

In a release issued on Friday, the group warned its 53
million motorist members that most vehicles aren't approved by
manufacturers to run on E15, the new blend approved by the Environmental Protection Agency in
June. By filling up using E15, consumers risk damaging vehicles
and voiding warranties, AAA said.

The latest call from the consumer group highlights the
growing controversy surrounding the new form of gasoline. While
the ethanol industry fought hard to win
government support to roll out E15, carmakers and blenders have
relentlessly resisted the move, citing concerns about its
impact on vehicles and equipment.

According to a survey among automakers, AAA found that 12
million, or 5%, of all the light-duty vehicles were authorized
by manufacturers to use E15. However, the Renewable Fuels
Association, which represents the country's ethanol producers, says that 62% of
the cars are suitable for E15.

Until they reach an agreement, "the risk is that consumers
are caught in the middle," said Robert Darbelnet, president and
chief executive of AAA. "We're asking the EPA to suspend the
authorization they granted for the sale of E15 until such time
as consumers can be better informed," he said.

Most consumers are not aware of the new gasoline, which is
only offered at 10 gas stations in three states. The AAA said
unsuspecting consumers may end up using E15 in unapproved cars,
which could result in technical problems, such as accelerated
engine wear and failure, and fuel-system damage.

The latest statement by AAA is another blow to the country's
ethanol industry. Falling auto sales and gasoline demand in the
US have left the industry with excessive supply.

Through increasing the ethanol content in gasoline from the
current 10% to 15%, producers hope it will help bolster ethanol
demand and absorb the surplus, while bringing down gasoline
prices and lowering greenhouse-gas emissions.

Ethanol is generally cheaper than gasoline, although the
price gap has recently narrowed. As of Thursday's close, the
price for ethanol is $2.428 a gallon, or 35.9
cents lower than RBOB gasoline's $2.787.

So far, the only vehicles approved by manufacturers to use
E15 are flex-fuel models, 2001 model-year and newer Porsches,
2012 and newer General Motors Co. vehicles, and 2013 Ford Motor
Co. vehicles, AAA said.

Five producers, including BMW, Chrysler Group and Toyota,
have said their warranties will not cover fuel-related claims
caused by the use of E15, AAA said.

Dow Jones Newswires

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When my tank is low , the idle increases from 700 to 1500 rpm's. Then when I try to accelerate the car has no power. I brought the car to two mechanics and their computers did not show any trouble.Is it possible that I have e15? Where can I have my gas analyzed?

Jay Bass12.05.2012

Ask any good auto mechanic & he'll tell you ANY ethanol in gasoline will cause excessive corrosion & possible other damage to auto engines and components. Also, small gasoline powered engines such as used for lawn mowers, weed cutters, etc, come with mfr. warnings to NOT USE ethanol fuel at all.

Cristiano12.04.2012

Brazil blended up to 26% of ethanol since 2005 (or earlier) and no problem is notice. Since 2007 I have been running a citroen flex fuel car without a single problem. Actually, during more than 100.000 km in the street I had used different combination, going from 20% to 100% Ethanol and my conclusion is that the car runs better on Ethanol. Ethanol is cleaner than gasoline, so catalyst life is longer. Not required to clean the ejectors as no deposits takes place. Power is higher and finally better performance. Only advantage is that you need to start with gasoline during the low temperatures , check periodic sensors in order to keep fine adjust for fuel/air ration. Finnally, some of the most popular car in production in Brazil are GM cars.

Jay Bass12.04.2012

Ask any good auto mechanic & he'll tell you ANY ethanol in gasoline will cause excessive corrosion & possible other damage to auto engines and components. Also, small gasoline powered engines such as used for lawn mowers, weed cutters, etc, come with mfr. warnings to NOT USE ethanol fuel at all.